Best of Ella

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Ella

One of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque hill country villages, Ella lies amid forested mountains, tea plantations and hidden waterfalls. You can admire the views on walks through the forests, visiting temples or tea estates, followed by star-filled evenings unwinding at one of the well-placed guesthouses overlooking the valley. Getting here is a big part of the experience, especially if you come aboard the vintage train from Kandy, where you'll have picturesque mountain views along the way.

Near Ella, you can make the walk to see Ravana Falls, an 82-foot (25-m) cascade that tumbles down a rocky hillside surrounded by thick forest. The idyllic setting is a favorite spot for locals to go for a swim in refreshing rock pools. A bit more challenging is the trek to Ella Rock, a four-hour round-trip that takes to you a summit with panoramic views over the layers of misty mountains stretching off to the horizon. Excursions by tuk-tuk take you out to tea-growing plantations, where you can learn about the intricacies of tea growing while walking the fields and chatting with harvesters.

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This seven-day tour of Sri Lanka takes you to epic sights like the Nine Arches Bridge between Ella and Kandy

Nature, Culture & Adventure in Sri Lanka - 7 Days

This compact weeklong trip to Sri Lanka gives you a taste of the country's culture, history, and nature, all with a side of adventure. See the Royal Palace in Hill Country's Kandy, then take the world-famous rail trip to the misty hills of Ella. Swim in waterfalls, climb peaks, and zipline over the scenery before transferring to Yala National Park to see jaguars and elephants. In Mirissa, board a boat tour to see blue whales and spend an afternoon touring the colonial city of Galle on Unawatuna Bay.

Spend your first night in Galle facing the sunset on the south coast (and see the traditional fishing methods in action)

Immersive Exploration of Sri Lanka - 11 Days

Discerning travelers will love this 11-day itinerary in exotic Sri Lanka. The trip kicks off with a private transfer to Galle on the south coast, where you'll take a guided tour of a peace pagoda. Then make a large loop visiting national parks teeming with elephants, ancient UNESCO-listed sites, hiking trails, and swimming beaches on the east coast before returning to Colombo. Partake in a range of optional activities—like private seafood dinners—or explore on your own for a fully customizable experience.

Spot whales and dolphins with the help of a naturalist on a boat cruise from Mirissa

Explore Sri Lanka's Hill Country, Rainforest & Coast - 11 Days

This 11-day Sri Lankan itinerary takes you from the vibrant coastal city of Negombo to the lush highlands of Ella, through the wildlife-rich Yala National Park, into the rainforest of Sinharaja, and finally onto the southern coast in Weligama. You'll go on a guided hike to Little Adam's Peak, soar above Ravana on a zipline, and search for wildlife on safari. Other highlights include a jungle trek, exploring the Galle Dutch Fort, and looking for dolphins and whales on a boat cruise.

End your trip on the beaches of Unawatuna

Classic Sri Lanka: Temples, Mountains & Beaches - 8 Days

This eight-day getaway takes you on a circular journey through the highlights of central and southern Sri Lanka. Setting out from the west coast beach town of Negombo, you'll travel deep into the country's cultural heart—exploring the ancient fortress of Sigiriya, the cave temples of Dambulla, and the palaces and relics of Kandy along the way. After a refreshing trip through the lush mountains and tea estates of Ella, head back to the coast to wind down in the beach paradise of Unawatuna.

Views across the Sri Lankan highlands from Little Adam's Peak

Sri Lanka Highlights: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Yala & Galle - 9 Days

From the UNESCO-listed ruins of the Cultural Triangle to the historic Indian Ocean fortress of Galle, this nine-day introduction to Sri Lanka rounds up all the highlights of the island's south and central regions. Explore the ancient civilizations of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, tour the sacred temples of Kandy, take a breathtaking train journey through the tea fields of Ella, and head off-road in search of rare wildlife in Yala National Park.

Hike to Little Adam's Peak for a fun photo opportunity

Sri Lanka Active Adventure - 9 Days

This 9-day journey through Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) explores fascinating highlights in the Cultural Triangle—home of ancient cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Buddhist relics. With a private driver and guide, you'll take hikes in tea country, spot diverse wildlife in the rainforest, and relax (or surf) on picturesque beaches on the south coast for an adventure to remember.

Sunrise views from the summit of Adam's Peak

Sri Lanka Outdoor Adventure: Dambulla to Unawatuna - 10 Days

On this thrilling 10-day itinerary, you'll hike, raft, and zipline your way across Sri Lanka's most dramatic and diverse landscapes. Explore the fortresses and rock temples of the Cultural Triangle, brave waterfalls and whitewater rapids in the Hill Country, and go off-road to search for elephants in Udawalawe National Park. Your adventure ends on the south coast with some well-earned downtime on the tropical beaches of Unawatuna.

Search for the rare Sri Lankan leopard in Yala National Park

Active Sri Lanka: Rivers, Mountains, Wildlife & Beaches - 9 Days

Raft, hike, abseil, and snorkel your way around Sri Lanka on this nine-day outdoor adventure. Winding through the island's central and southern regions, you'll start with a week of adrenaline-fueled fun—paddling through whitewater rapids, rappelling down waterfalls, and hiking to dramatic mountain peaks. After heading into the wild to search for leopards and elephants on safari, wind down with snorkeling and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Discover Sri Lanka's lush tea hills and plantations

Tea Hills & Tropical Beaches of Sri Lanka - 13 Days

This 13-day adventure will whisk you from Sri Lanka's lush hillsides and tea plantations to the laid-back beaches of its southern coast. Start in Negombo, with its rich history, then move on to Kandy to climb the mountaintop tower of Ambuluwalwa. Go tea tasting in the verdant Uva Highlands before kicking back in paradise on the golden sands of Tangalle. Beyond the beaches, you'll have plenty of time for excursions to a turtle sanctuary, the Rock Temples of Mulkirigala, and the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary.

Explore some of Sri Lanka's lush tea plantations in Hatton, Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Galle

Sri Lanka's Tea Legacy: From the Highlands to the Coast - 9 Days

Unveil Sri Lanka's rich tea heritage over nine days, starting with a tea-infused dinner in Hatton. Tour the Dunkeld Tea Factory before transferring to Nuwara Eliya, where you'll hike in Horton Plains National Park and take afternoon tea on the lawns of a colonial-era hotel. Ride a train over the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella and sip tea at a local tea plantation before heading to Galle to explore Galle Fort. Then, wrap up your tea-savoring trip with a visit to Handunugoda Tea Estate and the Japanese Peace Pagoda.

Sunrise over the Indian Ocean in Tangalle, Sri Lanka

Beaches & Villages of Sri Lanka: Kandy, Ella, & Tangalle - 10 Days

This relaxed 10-day itinerary around Sri Lanka is a treat for nature lovers. Along the journey, you'll see turtles hatching eggs on the beach, spot rare birds in the wild, hike to incredible vistas, and learn about the spices of Ceylon. There's a cultural element to the trip, too: you'll visit temples, learn to meditate with a Buddhist monk, dine in a Sri Lankan home in a small village, and ride an antique train route established by the British in the 18th century.

Meet the stars of Disney's "Monkey Kingdom" in Polonnaruwa

Sri Lanka Family Discovery: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Yala & Tangalle - 10 Days

See the best of Sri Lanka on this 10-day family trip that loops around the country's southern half. Begin with a countryside bike tour and a hike to the summit of Sigiriya Rock, then hop over to Kandy to tour the Temple of the Tooth and swim in crystal-blue waterfalls. Take a train through the misty valleys of the Hill Country, hike to the incredible Nine Arch Bridge, and see elephants on a safari through Yala National Park. Your vacation winds down with family-friendly fun on the golden beaches of Tangalle.

Discover Sri Lanka: Dambulla, Kandy, Ella, Yala, & Weligama - 12 Days

Discover the culture, heritage, wildlife, and beaches on this Sri Lankan journey. To start, visit the esteemed Dambulla Rock Temple. Then, climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, followed by a trip to a local village, complete with a nature walk and an authentic meal on a working farm. Next, explore the temples and sights of Kandy and the scenic tea country of Ella. Stop for a safari at Yala National Park and then head to Weligama for an ancient fort tour, some whale watching, and four days of beach bliss.

Explore tea plantations in the lush Sri Lanka countryside

Sri Lanka Classic Outdoor Adventure - 11 Days

This exciting tour is perfect for outdoorsy types who love history and animals. Upon arriving in Colombo, you'll be whisked straight to the countryside to explore a Buddhist cave complex and see hundreds of elephants. Continue hitting the classics with a range of guided excursions to see UNESCO-listed sites, hiking trails, and leopards. Finish with two nights on the beach, where you can explore an enormous colonial fort and learn how sea turtles are released back into the Indian Ocean.

Visit Kandy's Royal Palace on Lake Kandy during a half-day tour

Uncover Sri Lanka's Rich Heritage & Scenic Beauty - 11 Days

Spend 11 days exploring Sri Lanka's best landscapes and cultural attractions. Start with a tour of the Japanese Peace Pagoda in Galle, followed by a bike ride through the picturesque countryside. Next is Yala National Park, where you'll go on wildlife safaris and participate in a cooking demonstration. Continue to Ella for mountain hikes and a scenic train ride to Kandy, home of the Ceylon tea plantations. Finish the adventure by climbing Sigiriya Rock and taking a boat ride along the "Dutch Canal."

Enjoy the views from Little Adam's Peak, Ella, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Summer Tour - 12 Days

This 12-day escape combines the best of Sri Lanka, from history and culture to action and adventure. In Colombo, you'll tour historic colonial landmarks before heading into the central highlands to visit ancient temples and romantic waterfalls. Other adventures include train trips through tea plantations, mountain hikes, safaris in national parks, and visiting the mystical rock fortress of Sigiriya.

Take in the sweeping vistas of the ocean from Rumassala's Japanese Peace Pagoda

Sri Lanka Nature, Culture & Architecture - 12 Days

This itinerary mixes the outdoors, culture, and history to create the perfect vacation in Sri Lanka. Witness history in the form of colonial landmarks and marvel at the country's beauty on visits to highland tea plantations and mountain waterfalls. After touring the Sigiriya rock fortress and Japanese Peace Pagoda, end the trip by visiting buildings designed by Geoffrey Bawa, one of the most famous architects in Asia.

Trekking in Sri Lanka - 7 Days

One of the best ways to explore Sri Lanka is on your own two feet, exploring quiet trails and beautiful landscapes on a guided trekking tour. This weeklong adventure takes you to Horton Plains National Park, Ella Rock, the famed Hill Country, and several other destinations for hiking, canoeing, and appreciating native wildlife. You'll also visit ancient temples and learn about the harvesting and production of tea, adding a cultural element to this outdoorsy itinerary.

Watching the waves roll in on Unawatuna Beach

Sri Lanka for Families: Cultural Triangle & South Coast - 7 Days

With a mix of cultural highlights, hands-on activities, and plenty of beach time, this 7-day Sri Lankan itinerary is perfect for families. Go for a gentle cycle through the countryside of the Cultural Triangle, spot elephants on safari in Minneriya National Park, and learn the beats of traditional drumming in Kandy. After picking tea leaves in the lush mountains of the Hill Country, it's time to transfer to the coast to enjoy the warm, turquoise seas around Unawatuna.

Sri Lanka Glamping Adventure - 13 Days

Sri Lanka's natural beauty takes center stage on this diverse and adventurous 13-day itinerary. Beginning and ending in the capital of Colombo, you'll spend your days exploring ancient temples and fortresses, hiking to secluded waterfalls, relaxing on idyllic beaches, and spotting rare wildlife in two of the country's most spectacular national parks. At night, the sounds and sights of nature will lull you to sleep at a succession of luxurious "glamping" properties.

The adventure starts on day one with a rafting trip down the Kelani River

Outdoor Adventures in Sri Lanka: Kitulgala, Kandy, Ella & Unawatuna - 7 Days

This action-packed Sri Lankan adventure starts with an exciting whitewater rafting experience along the Kelani River and a guided trek to Belilena Cave and Sandun Ella Waterfall. Then, it's on to the "cultural capital" of Kandy, where you can visit landmarks like the Old Royal Palace and Sri Dalada Maligawa, home to a relic believed to be Buddha's tooth. Spend a day in Ella's tea plantations before transferring to the southern coast to discover Unawatuna's pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.

Ancient History & Pristine Beaches in Sri Lanka - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary around Sri Lanka offers an ideal mix of activity and relaxation. You'll begin in Negombo and work your way around the island, stopping to visit ancient temple complexes, Buddhist shrines, and palaces carved into mountainsides. Along the journey, you'll spend two nights observing wildlife in Wilpattu National Park, enjoy the calm coastline in Pasikudah, explore charming colonial villages, and relax on breathtaking beaches with snorkeling and diving opportunities easily accessible offshore.

Sri Lanka Family Wildlife Adventure - 14 Days

Experience the best of Sri Lanka's nature and wildlife experiences on this two-week family-themed itinerary. Looping through the island's southern and central regions, you'll embark on a series of fun-filled safaris, nature walks, biking excursions, and boat trips, with nights spent in comfort at gracious eco-lodges and safari camps. Search for leopards in Yala National Park, see the monkey-filled ruins of Polonnaruwa, watch elephants swim in Gal Oya National Park, spot rare primates on a nocturnal jungle hike, and discover the colorful marine life of Pasikudah.

Explore Sri Lanka & The Maldives - 14 Days

This 14-day island-hopping trip offers equal parts exploration and relaxation. Uncover the history and culture of Sri Lanka, a jewel of the Indian Ocean, from ancient rock fortresses and historical capital cities to quiet tea plantations and national parks home to elephants and other endangered wildlife. You'll spend some time unwinding on the beaches of Unawatuna before heading to the capital city of Colombo to catch your flight to the Maldives. You'll spend the last few days of the trip snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying epic sunsets in this island paradise.

Traditional fishing stilt aparatus of Koggala Beach, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Winter Holiday Adventure - 15 Days

Eschew the frigid winter for the sun-kissed beaches and verdant mountains of Sri Lanka. Over 15 adventure-filled days, you'll experience the highlights and natural beauty of this mystical gem of the Indian Ocean, from its highland tea plantations to its gilded southern shores. In between, you'll tour ancient cities, enjoy jungle safaris, explore cave temples, swim at romantic waterfalls, go whale watching, and much more.

Climb to the top of Lion Rock to visit the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Journey Through Sri Lanka: Beaches, Temples & Wildlife - 15 Days

Visit nine iconic destinations across Sri Lanka in just over two weeks, starting with a tour of Negomo's colonial-era highlights. Trek to dramatic sites like Sigiriya Rock Fortress and surf, snorkel, and chill out on the sands in Pasikudah before moving on to Kandy to explore the Royal Palace and tuk-tuk ride the Three Temple Loop. Then, head out on wildlife safaris in two national parks, sample Ceylon tea at the Dambatenne Tea Factory, and admire the Japanese Peace Pagoda in Galle before ending in Colombo.

A monkey samples some Sri Lankan coconut

Flavors of Sri Lanka - 9 Days

Delight your senses and broaden your palate with this nine-day exploration of Sri Lankan culture and cuisine. Beginning and ending in Colombo, you'll circle the island's south, checking off must-see highlights as you sample local dishes. Bike to a rural village for an unforgettable curry lunch, explore Kandy's colorful street food scene, see how world-class tea is made in Hill Country, and taste the freshest seafood on the tropical beaches of Ahangama.

Views across the Sri Lankan city of Kandy

Wonders of Sri Lanka: Negombo to Ahangama -10 Days

From ancient temples to mountain villages and national parks, this 10-day itinerary introduces you to the many wonders of southern and central Sri Lanka. Setting out from the laid-back beach town of Negombo, you'll visit some of the country's most remarkable cultural sites like Yapahuwa, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya, and explore the surrounding landscapes with memorable cycling and safari excursions. After a week of discovery and adventure, end your trip with a few days of relaxation on the Indian Ocean beaches of Ahangama.

Children practicing traditional fishing skills in Hikkaduwa

Family Expedition to Sri Lanka: Culture, History & Outdoor Adventures - 10 Days

This exciting 10-day Sri Lanka family tour starts in Sigiriya, where you'll see the historic Dambulla Cave Temple and hike to the summit of Sigiriya Rock. Then, it's off to the UNESCO-listed city of Kandy to tour the sacred Temple of the Tooth and attend a drum-making workshop. See green plantations and lush forests on the train to Ella, say hello to elephants and other wildlife on a safari through Yala National Park, and end on the beaches of Hikkaduwa for snorkeling in the blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

Sunrise across the Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Treasures of Sri Lanka - 20 Days

Discover the magic of central and southern Sri Lanka on this immersive 20-day itinerary. Setting out from Colombo, you'll wind your way through a land rich with culture, history, and natural beauty—visiting countless highlights and hidden gems along the way. Spot elephants and leopards on safari, hike to towering waterfalls, explore ancient ruins and sacred temples, and savor some downtime on idyllic Indian Ocean beaches.

Surfing Adventure & Culture in Sri Lanka - 11 Days

Sri Lanka is fast becoming one of the hottest surf destinations in South Asia, with an ideal mix of beginner breaks and serious points. This 11-day adventure squeezes in plenty of salty surf days with a dash of culture. After a tour of Kandy and a train ride through tea plantations to Ella, you'll hit the coast for a few days each at two surf meccas: Arugam Bay and Hiriketiya Beach. This itinerary is best between May and October when swells are hitting the east of the island and the Bay of Benegal.

Honeymoon in Sri Lanka - 12 Days

This 12-day honeymoon is perfect for couples who love exotic wildlife and natural scenery. Starting from the capital, you'll circle the island-nation exploring a boggling array of national parks, rainforests, ancient villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Buddhist relics. After each day of sightseeing with your private guide, you'll have quality time (alone) at your accommodations—a fun mix of resorts, beach hotels, and safari camps—for the ultimate romantic adventure.

The lush green mountains of Ella, Sri Lanka

Cycling Tour of Sri Lanka - 13 Days

This is the quintessential Sri Lankan bike ride! On this two week trip, you will discover local tea plantations, small villages, and historically significant cities — along with some wonderfully diverse riding through a sizeable portion of the island. You'll cycle from the culturally rich north through tea country then down into the southern plains and Horton Plains National Park, finishing in Galle.

Other popular travel destinations in Sri Lanka
Kandy · Sigiriya · Colombo · Negombo · Nuwara Eliya · Yala National Park · Galle · Udawalawe · Tangalle · Wilpattu · Pasikudah · Anuradhapura · Bentota · Dambulla · Mirissa · Habarana

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